DNA Replication of the Lagging Strand: Explanation Followed by Animation

The video tutorial by Kevin Tokoph at Catalyst University explains the synthesis of the lagging strand during DNA replication. It highlights the complexity of the lagging strand compared to the leading strand, which is synthesized continuously. The tutorial details the roles of various enzymes, including DNA primase, DNA polymerase III, DNA polymerase I, and DNA ligase, in synthesizing Okazaki fragments and connecting them to form a complete DNA strand. The process is visually explained, emphasizing the discontinuous nature of lagging strand synthesis.

What is the main difference between the synthesis of the leading and lagging strands during DNA replication?

• Both strands are synthesized continuously.

• The leading strand is synthesized continuously, while the lagging strand is discontinuous.

• The leading strand is synthesized discontinuously, while the lagging strand is continuous.

• Both strands are synthesized discontinuously.

What is the function of DNA primase in the synthesis of the lagging strand?

• It synthesizes DNA fragments.

• It replaces RNA primers with DNA.

• It connects Okazaki fragments.

• It generates RNA primers.

What are Okazaki fragments?

• Continuous DNA strands on the leading strand.

• RNA primers on the lagging strand.

• Enzymes involved in DNA replication.

• Short DNA fragments on the lagging strand.

Which enzyme is responsible for synthesizing DNA between RNA primers on the lagging strand?

• DNA primase

• DNA polymerase III

• DNA ligase

• DNA polymerase I

What role does DNA polymerase I play in the synthesis of the lagging strand?

• It synthesizes RNA primers.

• It synthesizes DNA continuously.

• It replaces RNA primers with DNA.

• It connects Okazaki fragments.

What is the function of DNA ligase in DNA replication?

• It synthesizes DNA continuously.

• It replaces RNA primers with DNA.

• It connects Okazaki fragments.

• It synthesizes RNA primers.

Why is the synthesis of the lagging strand considered more complex than the leading strand?

• It requires multiple enzymes to connect fragments.

• It does not involve RNA primers.

• It involves continuous synthesis.

• It is synthesized in the same direction as the replication fork.